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Press Release 3
Cats Protection survey highlights the need to microchip your cat
Cats Protection’s Milton Keynes & District Branch is
keen to promote microchipping as one of the best methods of pet
identification after a recent survey by the charity revealed that almost one in
two cats that go missing never return.
“It is very sad to think that some cats are never reunited with their owners, so making sure your cat is easily identifiable is vital to increase the chance of a happy reunion,” explained Karen Robinson, Branch Co-ordinator/Homing & Welfare Officer. “Microchipping offers a safe method of identification, but it is also wise to ensure your cat has a safety collar and identity tag, which instantly identifies the cat, should a member of the public find it. If you do choose to put a collar and ID on your cat it is important to make sure the collar is a quick release safety version and that it is correctly fitted,” she added.
Microchipping is a simple procedure, no more painful than an injection, and can be performed by a vet or other specially-trained personnel. A small microchip, containing a unique identification number, is inserted under the cat’s skin between his shoulder blades. The number is linked to a database containing details of the pet, as well as the owner’s contact details. When a scanner detects the microchip, a simple phone call can ascertain the owner’s details and the pet can then be quickly returned home.
“It is very important that pet owners who move house keep their details up to date. Owners should check their certificate which will tell them how to do this,” said Karen. “We spend a lot of time and money, not to mention the stress for the owner and cat, trying to locate an owner who has microchipped their pet, but moved on and their details are no longer of use.”
Milton Keynes & District branch operates a Lost & Found register, as well as finding homes for lost and unwanted cats in the area. For more information about the work of the charity, please contact Cats Protection on 01296 738558 (local rate), or visit www.mkcats.org.uk.
~ends~
Notes to editors:
1. Please contact Sarah Smith, Publicity Officer via email publicity@mkcats.org.uk,
for more information or to arrange an interview.2. Microchips can migrate to other locations under the skin so it is important that a cat is scanned all over when checking for a ‘chip. It is also a good idea to have a vet or other trained person scan any recently acquired cats that are presumed to be lost or strays, to double-check that they don’t already have a ‘chip.
3. Cats Protection’s Milton Keynes & District Branch
is part of the charity’s nationwide network of 29 Adoption Centres and 261 voluntary-run Branches that together find loving homes for around 60,000 cats every year. The Milton Keynes & District Branch currently has several cats and kittens in its care awaiting a second chance in life. For more information on giving a rescue cat a home, please contact the branch on 01296 738558 (local rate).
4. More information about the work of the branch can be found at www.mkcats.org.uk.
